Carolina Very Interested in Allison

Carolina have today further demonstrated their interest in injured superstar center Jason Allison, requesting him in Raleigh to undergo medical examinations in light of his injury-riddled past. This puts the Canes in the running with the Edmonton Oilers in the race to get his signature. Allison’s agent has stated that he would have a real interest in playing for the Hurricanes. The most difficult part for these teams interested in Allison though, will be gauging a salary agreement, considering his massive injury history weighed up against the stellar numbers he posted last time he was playing.

One of the biggest connections and interest reasons for Allison in Carolina would be new head coach Peter Laviolette who was around in Boston back when Allison was the star player there. Laviolette has contacted Allison about the idea and thus Allison and his agent have shown this moderate amount of interest in a potential deal.

Allison has been better than a point per game in the last 2 and a half seasons he has played for Los Angeles. Obviously a lot of the production would’ve stemmed from his chemistry with fellow stars there Adam Deadmarsh and Zigmund Palffy. If Allison were to move to Carolina, it would be hoped he could strike up a good partnership with players such as Cole, Brind’Amour, O’Neill, Staal, Vrbata and Williams.

I’m a big Allison fan. I feel on his day that without injuries, he is one of the most productive players in the league. The big question mark still looms with the injuries. If Allison were to join the Canes, he would make an excellent acquisition as first line center, with Staal playing number 2 (hopefully) and Brind’Amour at 3rd line. I would love to see a Cole – Allison – O’Neill line for them.

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WILLIAMS ALSO RE-SIGNED

The Canes today also re-signed winger Justin Williams. This was a good signing for the Canes, as Williams, though he had a slightly disappointing season by his own standards, was a good acquisition for them from the Flyers, and lead the team with 33 assists. The financial terms weren’t disclosed and weren’t available yet on NHLPA, however it is only a one year deal. I expect Williams to be putting up better numbers this next campaign, especially with a full season at Carolina and perhaps the potential arrival of Jason Allison.